Fowl decoy movement simulator

ABSTRACT

A decoy may include a ground support comprising a ground engaging portion and an upstanding post, a powered actuator operably coupled to the decoy and a wireless communications device. The wireless communications device may include a transmitter to transmit signals to a receiver in communication with the powered actuator, wherein the powered actuator selectively raises and lowers the decoy in response to receipt of the signals received by the receiver.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a nonprovisional application claimingpriority under 35 USC § 119 from U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/297,939 filed on Nov. 21, 2016 by Samuel D. Cagle andentitled FOWL DECOY MOVEMENT SIMULATOR, the full disclosure which ishereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Decoys for wildfowl, such as wild turkeys, ducks and other birds arefrequently used to attract live wildfowl for wildlife observation andhunting. The ability of such decoys to effectively attract live wildfowlmay depend upon the ability of the decoys to deceive the live wildfowlinto believing that the decoy is another live wildfowl. Existing decoysdo not effectively attract live wildfowl.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 partially exploded side view (with portions shown in section) ofan example decoy system.

FIG. 2 is fragmentary side view (with portion shown in section) ofanother example decoy system.

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded side view (with portion shown in section)of another example decoy system.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the decoy system of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a top view of an example flexible line position retainer foruse in the system of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the flexible line position retainer of FIG. 5with portions transparently shown.

FIG. 7 is a top view of an example flexible line position retainer foruse in the system of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the flexible line position retainer of FIG. 5with portions transparently shown.

FIG. 9 is an exploded side view of another example decoy system.

FIGS. 10A-10F are perspective views illustrating use of the decoy systemof FIG. 9 to rotate an example decoy.

FIG. 11 is a partially exploded side view (with portion shown insection) of another example decoy system.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the decoy system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is fragmentary side view (with portion shown in section) ofanother example decoy system.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the decoy system of FIG. 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example decoy system 20 which more effectivelyattracts wildfowl. System 20 comprises decoy 22, ground support 24, bar26, elevator assembly 28 and actuator 30. For purposes of illustration,decoy 20 is illustrated much smaller and out of proportion relative tothe remaining illustrated components of system 20. Decoy 22 comprises abody simulating the body of a live fowl or bird. Decoy 22 may be formedfrom wood, molded polymers, or other materials. In one implementation,decoy 20 is formed from a molded polymer which is painted or colored tosimulate a life file. In one implementation, decoy 22 models the body ofa wild turkey. In the example illustrated, decoy 22 comprises a turkeyhen. In other implementations, decoy 22 models the body or parts of abody of another wild fowl or bird.

In the example illustrated, decoy 22 omits legs for the wild fowl. Inother implementations, decoy 22 additional comprises legs extending froman underside of the decoy 22, wherein the legs are foldable, collapsibleor bendable to accommodate rising and lowering of decoy 22. In oneimplementation, decoy 22 has a weight of between two and 3 pounds. Inother implementations, decoy 22 may have other sizes and weights.

Ground support 24 comprises a structure which supports decoy 22 relativeto an underlying terrain, such as the ground. In the exampleillustrated, ground support 24 comprises ground engaging portion 31 andupstanding post 32. Ground engaging portion 31 comprises a structure tosupport post 32 in upstanding orientation relative to the ground orterrain. In the example illustrated, around engaging portion 31comprises the end portion of a ground stake having a tapered tip 33 tofacilitate penetration of the ground stake into the ground. In theexample illustrated, ground engaging portion 31, comprising a groundstate, has a length of between 4 and 8 inches, and nominally about 6inches. Although the ground stake serving of ground engaging portion 31is illustrated as comprising a single rod that is penetrated into theground, in other implementations, the ground stake serving as groundengaging portion 31 comprises multiple spaced prongs or rods which arepenetrated into the ground for support of decoy 22.

In yet other implementations, ground engaging portion 31 comprises aplatform, base or feet which extend across and upon a top of the terrainor ground, without penetrating the underlying ground. In yet otherimplementations, ground invasion portion may comprise both a platform,base or feet which extend across a top of the ground and a groundpenetrating member that is inserted are pressed into the ground.

Upstanding post 32 extends upwardly from ground engaging portion 31.Upstanding post 32 cooperates with elevator mechanism 28 to facilitatevertical reciprocation of decoy 22. In the example illustrated,upstanding post 32 has a length of between 12 inches and 14 inches. Inother implementations, upstanding post 32 may have other lengths.

Bar 26 comprise a structure extending sideways from ground support 24.In the example illustrated, bar 26 comprise a foot press bar tofacilitate use of a person's foot for pushing ground support 24, in theform of a ground stake, into the ground. In other implementations, inwhich ground support 24 does not comprise a ground stake or a group ofground stakes, bar 26 may comprise the platform, base or feet extendsalong the surface of the ground and which supports the upstanding post32 of ground support 24.

Elevator assembly 28 comprise a mechanism to facilitate and guideupwards and downwards reciprocating vertical movement of decoy 22relative to the underlying ground. In the example illustrated, elevatorassembly 28 comprises outer tube 40 and bias 42. Outer tube 40 serves asa decoy support member to which decoy 22 is supported and mounted. Outertube 40 comprises a sleeve that linearly and vertically slides up anddown along upstanding post 32 which guides the sliding movement of outertube 40.

Outer tube 40 is connected to decoy 22. In the example illustrated,outer tube 40 is insertable at least partially into the interior of body22. In the example illustrated, outer tube 40 insertable into a verticalpassage, channel or opening 44 extending within decoy 22 and having amouth 46 on a bottom side of decoy 22. In the example illustrated, theend of outer tube 40 is contained within decoy 22, without completelypassing through decoy 22. In the example illustrated, outer tube 40 hasa length and an internal diameter sufficient to contain bias 42 as bias42 changes shape or moves during vertical reciprocation of decoy 22 by avertical distance of between 4 inches and 8 inches, nominally about 5.4inches. In the example illustrated, outer tube 40 has a length ofapproximately 8.5 inches.

Bias 42 comprises a mechanism that resiliently biases decoy 22 to araised state. In the example illustrated, bias 42 comprises acompression spring captured between an axial end of upstanding post 32and an interior surface 48 of decoy 22 or blind end 48 of passage 44. Inone implementation, the compression spring forming bias 42, in a relaxeduncompressed state, extends axially beyond outer tube 40 such applied anadditional range of movement given the size of outer tube 40. In otherimplementations, the end 50 of outer tube 40 is capped or occluded suchthat the compression spring forming bias 42 is captured between post 32and the occluded end 50.

In one implementation, tube 40 has an inside diameter of 0.49 inches. Insuch an implementation, the spring of bias 42 comprises the compressioncylinder of music wire having a free length of 11.15 inches, an outsidediameter of 0.48 inches, and inside diameter of 0.404 inches, the rateof 0.684 pounds per inch, the spring index C of 11.6316 with 50.75active coils and 52.75 total coils having a pitch of 0.2175 inches, apitch angle of 8.9022 inches and a Devel length of 73.248 inches. Inother implementations, tube 40 and the spring of bias 42 may have otherconfigurations.

Actuator 30 comprises a mechanism by which the wildlife observer orhunter may remotely actuate elevator mechanism 28 to verticallyreciprocate decoy 22. In the example illustrated, actuator 30 comprisesanchor 54, guides 56 and flexible line 58. Anchor 54 comprises astructure coupled to outer tube 40 connected to flexible line 58. Forpurposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” shall mean the joiningof two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining maybe stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may beachieved with the two members or the two members and any additionalintermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary bodywith one another or with the two members or the two members and anyadditional intermediate member being attached to one another. Suchjoining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable orreleasable in nature. The term “operably coupled” shall mean that twomembers are directly or indirectly joined such that motion may betransmitted from one member to the other member directly or viaintermediate members.

Because anchor 54 is coupled to outer tube 40, decoy 22 may be slid offof and removed from outer tube 40, allowing different decoys 22 to beinterchanged upon outer tube 40. In other implementations, outer tube 40is integrally formed as a single unitary body with decoy 22. In yetanother implementation, anchor 54 is alternatively directly connected toor coupled to decoy 22. Guides 56 comprise structures which guide thedirection and extension of flexible line 58. In one implementation,guides 56 comprise grommets formed upon bar 26. In otherimplementations, guides 56 may comprise other structures and may beprovided at other locations or upon other structures of system 20.

Flexible line 58 comprises a cable, string, filament, wire or othersimilar elongated thin flexible, bendable line. For example, in oneimplementation of a flexible line 58 may comprise transparent fishingline. Flexible line has a first end 60 secured to anchor 54 of outertube 40. Flexible line 58 extends vertically from anchor 54 downwardsturns and passes through guides 56. Guides 56 direct flexible line 58along bar 26 and ultimately to a remote camouflaged location of a personusing system 20.

In operation, the person at the camouflaged location pulls upon flexibleline 58 which results in outer tube 40 and decoy 22 being pulled ordrawn downwards along upstanding post 32 of ground support 24. Duringsuch time, the compression spring of bias 42 is compressed. Release orletting out of flexible line 58 by the person at the camouflagedlocation allows bias 42 to once again expand or return to a defaultstate, lifting outer tube 40 and decoy 22. In the example illustrated,decoy may move upwards and downwards through a vertical distance orvertical range of at least 4 inches and a range of no greater than 8inches.

Through repeated pulling and releasing of flexible line 58, a person isable to quickly and easily vertically reciprocate decoy 22. Suchvertical reciprocation of decoy 22 simulates the natural dropping movingupwards and downwards of a female wild fowl when ready to mate. Forexample, a female turkey, when ready to mate, will exhibit submissivebreeding behavior by dropping down facilitate mounting by a malewildfowl. Such behavior is common amongst wild turkeys. Because thehidden or camouflaged person is able to actuate decoy 22 to bettersimulate more realistic or natural mating behavior of the female bird,the decoy 22 is more likely to appear live and entice or attract a malegendered live bird.

In the example illustrated, elevator mechanism 28 of system 20 utilizespulling of a flexible line 58 to lower a decoy 22 and outer tube 40against the bias force of a compression spring 42 which is compressedduring downward movement of decoy 22, wherein release of the flexibleline allows the compression spring serving as bias to return towards theinitial or default state of the compression spring, once again raisingouter tube 40 and decoy 22. In other implementations, elevator mechanism28 may have other configurations.

FIG. 2 illustrates decoy system 120, another example implementation ofdecoy system 20. Decoy system 120 comprises decoy 122, ground support124, elevator assembly 128 and actuator 130. Decoy 122 is similar todecoy 22 except the decoy 122 additionally comprises legs 123. Thoseremaining structures or components of decoy 122 which correspond tostructures or components of decoy 22 are numbered similarly. Legs 123extend outwardly from an underside of the body of decoy 122. Each oflegs 123 may be colored or painted to simulate legs of associated wildfowl. Each of legs 123 is bendable, foldable or flexible so as to bendour collapse when decoy 122 is in a lowered state, proximate to theground. In other implementations, legs 123 are omitted. In oneimplementation, decoy 122 models the body of a wild turkey. In otherimplementations, decoy 122 models the body or parts of a body of anotherwild fowl or bird.

Ground support 124 comprises a structure which supports decoy 122relative to an underlying terrain, such as the ground. In the exampleillustrated, ground support 124 comprises ground engaging portion 131and upstanding post 132. Ground engaging portion 131 comprises astructure to support post 132 in upstanding orientation relative to theground or terrain. In the example illustrated, ground engaging portion131 comprises a fork like structure having a plurality of groundengaging stakes 127 having tapered tips 133 to facilitate penetration ofthe ground stakes into the ground. In the example illustrated, each ofground engaging stakes 127 has a length of between 4 and 8 inches, andnominally about 6 inches. Although the ground stakes serving of groundengaging portion 131 is illustrated as comprising a multiple stakes thatare penetrated into the ground, in other implementations, the groundstakes serving as ground engaging portion 131 alternative comprise asingle ground stake such as shown in FIG. 1.

In yet other implementations, ground engaging portion 131 comprises aplatform, base or feet which extend across and upon a top of the terrainor ground, without penetrating the underlying ground. In yet otherimplementations, ground invasion portion may comprise both a platform,base or feet which extend across a top of the ground and a groundpenetrating member that is inserted are pressed into the ground.

Upstanding post 132 extends upwardly from ground engaging portion 131.Upstanding post 132 cooperates with elevator mechanism 128 to facilitatevertical reciprocation of decoy 122. In the example illustrated,upstanding post 132 has a length of between 12 inches and 14 inches. Inother implementations, upstanding post 132 may have other lengths.

Elevator assembly 128 comprise a mechanism to facilitate and guideupwards and downwards reciprocating vertical movement of decoy 122relative to the underlying ground. In the example illustrated, elevatorassembly 128 comprises outer tube 140 and bias 142. Outer tube 140comprises a sleeve that linearly and vertically slides up and down alongupstanding post 32 which guides the sliding movement of outer tube 140.Outer tube 140 receives an end portion of upstanding post 132.

Outer tube 140 is connected to decoy 122. In the example illustrated,outer tube 140 is insertable at least partially into the interior ofbody 122. In the example illustrated, outer tube 140 insertable into avertical passage, channel or opening 44 extending within decoy 122 andhaving a mouth 46 on a bottom side of decoy 122. In the exampleillustrated, the end of outer tube 140 is contained within decoy 22,without completely passing through decoy 122. In the exampleillustrated, outer tube 140 is substantially contained or receivedwithin decoy 122. In the example illustrated, outer tube 40 has a lengthof approximately 8.5 inches.

Bias 142 comprises a mechanism that resiliently biases decoy 122 to alowered state. In the example illustrated, bias 142 comprises a tensionspring having a first end portion anchored to either decoy 122 and/orouter tube 140 and a second end portion anchored to a lower portion ofground support 124. In the example illustrated, upstanding post 132comprises a shoulder collar 153 to which the second end portion of bias142 is anchored. In other implementations, the second end of bias 142alternatively anchored into the ground or to ground engaging portion131. In other implementations, bias 142 may comprise a bungee cord,rubber band other similar members which are stretchable to an elongatedstate, but which resiliently returned to an unstretched or shorterstate. In some implementations, bias 142 may be omitted, wherein gravityand the weight of decoy 122 returns decoy 1222 a lowered state afterdecoy 122 has been raised.

Actuator 130 comprises a mechanism by which the wildlife observer orhunter may remotely actuate elevator mechanism 128 to verticallyreciprocate decoy 122. In the example illustrated, actuator 130comprises anchor 154, guide 155 and guides 156 and flexible line 158.Anchor 154 comprises a structure coupled to outer tube 140 and connectedto flexible line 158. Because anchor 154 is coupled to outer tube 140,biased 142 may be disconnected from collar 153 or from decoy 122,allowing decoy 122 may be slid off of and removed from outer tube 140,allowing different decoys 122 to be interchanged upon outer tube 140. Inother implementations, outer tube 40 is integrally formed as a singleunitary body with decoy 122. In yet another implementation, anchor 154is alternatively directly connected to or coupled to decoy 122.

Guide 155 comprises a rounded structure at the tip of upstanding post132 about which flexible line 158 turns from extending upwardly toextending downwardly. In one implementation, guide 155 comprises arounded smooth surface along which then again switch flexible line 158slides or glides. In another implementation, guide 155 comprises anidling rotatable disk, wheel or pulley.

Guides 156 comprise structures which guide the direction and extensionof flexible line 158. In one implementation, guides 56 comprise grommetsformed upon post 132 and ground engaging portion 131 of ground support124. In the example illustrated, the grommets serving as guides 56 thatextend from post 132 within outer tube 140 surface space the interiorsurface of outer tube 140 from opposing portions of post 132 to providesufficient space for movement of flexible line 158 between post 132 andouter tube 140. In other implementations, guides 156 may comprise otherstructures and may be provided at other locations or upon otherstructures of system 120.

Flexible line 158 comprises a cable, string, filament, wire or othersimilar elongated thin flexible, bendable line. For example, in oneimplementation of a flexible line 158 may comprise transparent fishingline. Flexible line 158 has a first end 160 secured to anchor 154.Flexible line 158 extends vertically upwards from anchor 154, throughguide 156 and about guide 155 until turning downwards and passingthrough guides 156 along post 132. Guides 156 direct flexible line 158along post 132, through a 90° turn and along a top of ground engagingportion 131, ultimately extending to a remote camouflaged location of aperson using system 120.

In operation, the person at the camouflaged location pulls upon flexibleline 158 which results in outer tube 140 and decoy 122 being liftedupwards along upstanding post 132 of ground support 124. During suchtime, bias 142 is resiliently stretched. Release or letting out offlexible line 158 by the person at the camouflaged location allows bias142 to once again unstretch to return to a default state, pulling outertube 140 and decoy 122 downwards into closer proximity with the ground.Through repeated pulling and releasing of flexible line 158, a person isable to quickly and easily vertically reciprocate decoy 122. Suchvertical reciprocation of decoy 122 simulates the natural droppingmoving upwards and downwards of a female wild fowl when ready to mate.For example, a female turkey, when ready to mate, will exhibitsubmissive breeding behavior by dropping down facilitate mounting by amale wildfowl. Such behavior is common amongst wild turkeys. Because thehidden or camouflaged person is able to actuate decoy 122 to bettersimulate more realistic or natural mating behavior of the female bird,the decoy 122 is more likely to appear live and entice or attract a malegendered live bird.

Unlike decoy system 20 in which decoy 22 is maintained in a raised stateabsent pulling of flexible line 58, decoy system 120 maintains decoy 122in a lowered state absent pulling a flexible line 58. In somecircumstances, it may be beneficial to have decoy 22, 122 in the raisedstate for prolonged periods of time to ensure that the live fowl beingattracted see the decoy prior to the decoy being moved to the lowerstate. Decoy system 20 provides such a state with less neededintervention by the camouflaged wildlife observer or hunter.

FIG. 3 illustrates decoy system 220, another example implementation ofdecoy system 20. Decoy system 220 is similar to decoy system 20 exceptthat decoy system 220 comprises ground engaging portion 231 in lieu ofground engaging portion 31 is and additionally comprises actuator 230and position locks or position retainers 270. Those remaining componentsof system 220 which correspond to components of system 20 are numberedsimilarly.

Ground engaging portion 231 is similar to ground engaging portion 131described above. Ground engaging portion 231 comprises a fork likestructure having a plurality of ground engaging stakes 127 having atapered tips 133 to facilitate penetration of the ground stakes into theground. In the example illustrated, each of stakes 127 has a length ofbetween four and 8 inches, and nominally about 6 inches. Although theground stakes serving as ground engaging portion 231 are illustrated ascomprising a multiple stakes that are penetrated into the ground, inother implementations, the ground stakes serving as ground engagingportion 231 alternatively comprise a single ground stake such as shownin FIG. 1.

Actuator 230 is similar to actuator 30 except that actuator 230comprises guides 256 angularly offset about the axis 70 of upstandingpost 32 with respect to guides 56. Actuator 230 additionally comprisesanchor 54 (described above), and flexible line 258. Flexible line 258 issimilar to flexible line 58. Flexible line 258 comprises a cable,string, filament, wire or other similar elongated thin flexible,bendable line. For example, in one implementation, flexible line 258 maycomprise transparent fishing line. Flexible line 258 has a first end 260secured to anchor 54 of outer tube 40 (or directly to decoy 22).Flexible line 258 extends vertically from anchor 254 downwards untilturning and passing through guides 256. Guides 256 direct flexible line258 along bar 26 and ultimately to a remote camouflaged location of aperson using system 20. In the example illustrated, after exiting theend most or last guide 256 on bar 26, both lines 58, 258 extend into thedrawing sheet or out of the drawing sheet to the person manuallyactuating actuators 30, 230. FIG. 4 is an overhead view or top viewillustrating lines 58, 258 extending from bar 26 to a person 272 behindthe camouflaged or brush area 273. Because guides 56 and 256 areangularly offset respect to one another about axis 70, sequentialpulling of flexible lines 58, 258 results in pivoting or rotation ofdecoy 22 about axis 70.

In operation, the person 272 at the camouflaged location pulls uponflexible line 58 which results in outer tube 40 and decoy 22 beingpulled or drawn downwards along upstanding post 32 of ground support 24.During such time, the compression spring of bias 42 is compressed.Release or letting out of flexible line 58 by the person at thecamouflaged location allows bias 42 to once again expand or return to adefault state, lifting outer tube 40 and decoy 22. In the exampleillustrated, decoy 22 moves upwards and downwards through a verticaldistance or vertical range of at least 4 inches, a range of no greaterthan 8 inches and a range of nominally 5.4 inches.

Through repeated pulling and releasing of flexible line 58, a person isable to quickly and easily vertically reciprocate decoy 22. Suchvertical reciprocation of decoy 22 simulates the natural dropping movingupwards and downwards of a female wild fowl when ready to mate. Forexample, a female turkey, when ready to mate, will exhibit submissivebreeding behavior by dropping down facilitate mounting by a malewildfowl. Such behavior is common amongst wild turkeys. Because thehidden or camouflaged person is able to actuate decoy 22 to bettersimulate more realistic or natural mating behavior of the female bird,the decoy 22 is more likely to appear live and entice or attract a malegendered live bird.

Should the person 272 desire to rotate decoy 22 about axis 70, theperson may pull flexible line 258 which results in tube 40 and decoy 22rotating about axis 70. In circumstances where decoy 22 is already in afully lowered state, pulling on such line 258 merely results in rotationof decoy 22. Alternatively, if circumstances where decoy 22 is not yetin the fully lowered state (the bottom of tube 40 contacting the ground,the bottom of tube 40 contacting bar 26 or bias 42 being no longercompressible), pulling of flexible line 258 by the person or user 272additionally and concurrently lowers tube 40 and decoy 22.

After flexible line 258 has been pulled to rotate decoy 22, decoy 22remains in the new angular state about axis 70 until flexible line 58 issubsequently pulled. For example, FIG. 3 illustrates decoy 22 facing tothe left. In the state shown, the person may pull flexible line 58 toraise and lower decoy 22 while decoy 22 remains in the leftward lookingangular orientation. As a result of flexible line 258 being pulled,decoy 22 rotates to a position in which decoy 22 now faces to the right.In such a state, the person may pull flexible line 258 to raise andlower decoy 22 while decoy 22 remains in the rightward lookingorientation. To once again change the angular orientation of decoy 22,the user pulls on flexible line 58 to return decoy 22 to the leftwardlooking orientation. As a result, system 220 allows a user to changedecoy 22 to a selected angular orientation and then subsequentlyrepeatedly raise and lower decoy 22 while decoy 22 remains in theselected angular orientation.

In another implementation, as schematically shown by broken lines,system 220 additionally comprises a torsional bias 274. Torsional bias274 resiliently biases 240 and decoy 22 to a selected angularorientation about axis 70. For example, in one implementation, torsionalbias 274 comprises a torsion spring having one end secured to tube 40and another end secured to post 32. During pulling of flexible line 258,tube 40 is rotated against the bias of torsional bias 274 to angularlyreposition tube 40 and decoy 22. Upon release of flexible line 258,torsional bias 274 returns tube 40 and decoy 22 to the default angularorientation of decoy 22. In one such implementation, actuator 30 isomitted, wherein pulling of flexible line 258 concurrently lowers androtates decoy 22 while release of flexible line 258 concurrently raisesand oppositely rotates decoy 22. In implementations where actuator 230is configured similar to actuator 130 described above with respect toFIG. 2, pulling a flexible line 258 concurrently raises and rotatesdecoy 22 while release of flexible line 258 concurrently lowers andoppositely rotates decoy 22.

As further schematically shown by FIG. 3, in yet another implementation,in lieu of torsional bias 274 comprising a torsion spring, system 220may comprise a torsional bias 276 comprising a tension spring operablycoupled between anchor 54 and bar 26. Pulling of flexible line 258stretches the tension spring of torsional bias 276 as tube 40 and decoy22 are rotated about axis 70 and lowered. Release of flexible line 258allows the tension spring of bias 276 to retract towards its defaultrelaxed state, rotating tube 40 and decoy 22 back to the default angularorientation with respect to axis 70. At the same time, release offlexible line 258 allows bias 42 to raise decoy 22 to the default raisedstate.

In each of the above-described systems 20, and 220, bias 42, in the formof a compression spring, is illustrated as being contained within tube40, captured between post 32 and either a capped end of tube 40 or thestop surface provided by decoy 22. In other implementations, bias 42comprises a compression spring captured between a bottom or shoulder oftube 40 (or decoy 22) and either the ground, a top surface of bar 26 ora shoulder or flange radially projecting from post 32.

Position retainers 270 comprise mechanisms that releasably lock orretain flexible lines 58, 258 in a selected position such that decoy 22is also retained in a current state are selected position. FIGS. 5 and 6illustrate retainer 370, a particular example implementation of one ofretainers 270. As shown by FIG. 5, retainer 370 comprises a channel or atube 374 having an interior 375 through which the flexible line 58, 258extends. Retainer 370 additionally comprises a plurality of angledresiliently flexible line engaging teeth 377. During pulling of flexibleline 58 (or 258) in the direction indicated by arrow 379, teeth 377resiliently flex and bend to the right under the force of the line 58being pulled. Upon release of line 58 or the cessation of pulling, teeth377 resiliently return, pivoting in a direction opposite to arrow 379while gripping flexible line 58. Such pivoting continues until teeth 377may no low longer pivot, wherein the teeth 377 are each still angled tothe right (as seen in FIG. 5) inhibiting further movement of flexibleline 58 in the direction indicated by arrow 381. In essence, retainer270 comprises a unidirectional ratchet or grip. To release line 58 fromthe grip and retention of teeth 377, tube 374 is configured or sized soas to allow a person to quickly snap up or pull on flexible line 58,lifting flexible line 58 from the teeth gripped position (shown inbroken lines the FIG. 6) to the released raised state shown in FIG. 6,wherein flexible line 58 extends above teeth 377, allowing flexible line58 to pass through tube 374 above teeth 377. In other implementations,tube 374 is alternatively configured to allow flexible line 58 to besnapped downward, wherein the line 58 is moved to below teeth 377,allowing flexible line 58 to pass through tube 374 below teeth 377 outof engagement with teeth 377.

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate retainer 470, another example implementation ofretainer 270. Retainer 470 operates in a fashion similar to retainer 370described above. Retainer 470 comprises a pair of opposite rotatingteeth 477, between which line 58 extends. Teeth 477 rotate relative toone another between a first state in which line 58 is allowed to passthrough or between teeth 477 in the direction indicated by arrow 479 andwherein teeth 477 pinch and grip flexible line 58 when flexible line 58is moving in an opposite direction as indicated by arrow 481. Forexample, in one implementation, teeth 477 are permitted to freely rotateinto pinching engagement line 58 when line 58 is being moved in a firstdirection, but are limited in their rotation relative to one anotherwhen line 58 is moving in the opposite direction. To release flexibleline 58, a person simply snaps flex line 58 upwards or downwards outfrom between teeth 477.

FIG. 9 illustrates decoy system 520, another example implementation ofdecoy system 20. Decoy system 520 is similar to decoy system 220 exceptthat decoy system 520 comprises rotational assembly 528 and actuator 530in place of elevator assembly 28 and actuator 30. Those remainingelements or components of system 520 which correspond to elements orcomponents of system 220 are numbered similarly.

Rotational assembly 528 facilitates rotation of a supported decoy 22.Rotational assembly 528 comprises decoy support 540 and lever 542. Decoysupport 540 comprises a tube, rod or other structure having a lower endrotatably supported by post 32 and an upper end adapted to be fixed todecoy 22. In the example illustrated, post 32 supports a hollow cylindersleeve 543 in which support 540 is received and rotates about a verticalaxis centered along post 32 and support 540. In another implementation,support 540 may be fixed to a downwardly facing hollow sleeve orcylinder that receives the end of post 32. In yet other implementations,support 540 is rotationally supported for rotation relative to post 32by other bearings or rotational support mechanisms.

In the example illustrated, the upper end of support 540 comprisesexternal threads 545 for being secured to a fastener 547 to securesupport 540 to decoy 22 such that decoy 22 rotates in unison with therotation of support 540. In other implementations, the upper end ofsupport 540 may be fixedly secured to decoy 22 in other fashion such aswith welding, gluing, bonding, snap fits or other mechanisms.

Lever 542 comprises a projection, wing, arm or other extension extendingfrom support 540, providing a lever arm by which torque may be appliedto support 540 by actuator 530 to rotate support 540 and decoy 22. Inthe example illustrated, lever 542 has an eyelet 549 receiving the endof the flexible lines of actuator 530.

Actuator 530 is similar to actuator 230 except that actuator 530 omitsguides 56, 256 closest to post 32. As a result, flexible lines 58, 258apply a greater lever arm or force to lever 542 to rotate support 540and decoy 22 in response to being pulled through the more outer guide56, 256. In the example illustrated, actuator 530 omits theabove-described anchor 54. In other implementations, actuator 530 maycomprise anchor 54 to further assist in securing decoy 22 in a selectedangular position.

In operation, the person 272 (shown in FIG. 4) at the camouflagedlocation pulls upon flexible line 58 which results in support 540 anddecoy 22 being rotated in a first rotational direction (less than 360°).During such time, the flexible line 258 partially wraps about or crossesover the vertical axis of post 32 and support 540. Pulling of flexibleline 258, while flex line 58 is released, results in support 540 anddecoy 22 being rotated in a second opposite rotational direction (lessthan 360°).

Through alternating pulling and releasing of flexible lines 58, 258, aperson is able to quickly and easily rotate support 540 and decoy 22. Asa result, in circumstances where the decoy 22 is a male decoy, the decoy22 will appear in a breeding type of display. For example, ifcircumstances where decoy 22 comprises a simulation of the male turkey,such rotation of decoy 22 will simulate a male turkey displaying hisplumage in the state is known as strutting, wherein the male parades hisfeathers and tail which is fanned out to attract hens for breeding. Suchrotation of the decoy 22 causes the decoy 22 to appear more alive, whichwill cause live male turkeys that can see the decoy moving in a mannerthat is trying to attract and turkeys to become territorial andaggressive. Consequently, surrounding live male turkeys will approachthe rotating decoy 22 and come within range of wildlife observation,photography or harvesting (shooting). FIGS. 10A-10F illustrate therotation of a male turkey decoy (Tom) 522 through approximately 180°through the use of actuator 530 of system 520.

Decoy system 520 is a mechanism of relative low complexity and cost thatfacilitates such selective and controlled manual rotation of decoy 22.The rotation of decoy 22 is facilitated by rotatably supporting decoysupport 540 and facilitating manual rotation of support 543 lever and apair of angularly spaced (preferably opposite) flexible line guides thatare spaced from post 32. In some implementations, system 520 as well asthe other above-described systems may omit decoy 22, wherein suchsystems are adaptable for use with previously purchased or prior ownedexisting decoys 22.

In yet another implementation, decoy support 540 is resiliently biasedto a first angular position, wherein pulling of flexible line 56 rotatesthe decoy support 540 and the secured decoy 22 against the rotation ofbias. For example, in one implementation, decoy support 540 is connectedto post 32 by torsional spring or coil spring having one end secured tosupport 540 and a second end secured to post 32, wherein the torsionalspring resists rotation of support 540. In such an implementation, guide256 and flexible line 258 of actuator 530 may be omitted. Such animplementation, support 540 and decoy 22 resiliently return to a defaultfirst angular orientation upon the release of flexible line 56 afterbeing rotated to a second angular position against the resulting biasthrough the pulling a flexible line 56. Although support 540 isillustrated as being elevated above the ground and elevated above guides56, 256, in other implementations, support 540 may extend into closerproximity with respect to the ground and/or with respect to guides 56,256.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate decoy system 620, another exampleimplementation of decoy system 220. Decoy system 620 is similar to decoysystem 220 except that decoy system 620 comprises actuator 630 insteadof actuator 230. Those remaining components of system 220 whichcorrespond to components of system 20 are numbered similarly.

Actuator 630 is similar to actuator 230 except that actuator 630replaces that portion of flexible lines 258 extending from groundsupport 231 to a remote user with a wireless transmitter and anelectrically powered actuator. In the example illustrated, actuator 630comprises powered actuators 632, 634 and wireless communication system636. Powered actuator 632, 634 comprise powered mechanisms connected toline 58, 258 to selectively pull or release lines 58, 258 in response tosignals from wireless communication system 636. In one implementation,powered actuator 632 and 634 each comprise a two directional motor and aspool 638 about which either line 58 or 258 winds or unwinds in responseto actuation of the motor.

Wireless communication system 636 comprises transceiver 640 and a remotetransceiver or transmitter 642 (shown in FIG. 12). Remote transceiver642 receives input from the person behind camouflaged or brush area 273and communicates signals wirelessly to transceiver 640. Transceiver 640picks up such signals and outputs control signals in response thereto.Such control signals may result in actuators 632, 634 rotatably drivingspools 638 at different rates to wind up the associated lines 58, 258 toeither lower decoy 22 with rotation of decoy 22 or without rotation ofdecoy 22. In such control signals may result in actuator 632, 634rotatably driving spools 638 at different rates to allow bias 44 toraise decoy 122.

FIG. 12 is an overhead view or top view of decoy system 620 with awireless communication system 636 having a transmitter 642 under controlof a person 272 behind the camouflaged or brush area 273. In operation,the person 272 at the camouflaged location provides input to a remotetransmitter 642 to send signals 645 to transceiver 640, causing poweredactuator 632 to pull upon flexible line 58 which results in outer tube40 and decoy 22 being pulled or drawn downwards along upstanding post 32of ground support 24. During such time, the compression spring of bias42 is compressed. Alternative input to the remote transceiver 642results in signals being transmitted to transceiver 640 causing actuator632 to release or let out of flexible line 58 by the person at thecamouflaged location, allowing bias 42 to once again expand or return toa default state, lifting outer tube 40 and decoy 22. In the exampleillustrated, decoy 22 moves upwards and downwards through a verticaldistance or vertical range of at least 4 inches, a range of no greaterthan 8 inches and a range of nominally 5.4 inches.

Through repeated pulling and releasing of flexible line 58 through theuse of actuator 632, a person is able to quickly and easily verticallyreciprocate decoy 22. Such vertical reciprocation of decoy 22 simulatesthe natural dropping moving upwards and downwards of a female wild fowlwhen ready to mate. For example, a female turkey, when ready to mate,will exhibit submissive breeding behavior by dropping down facilitatemounting by a male wildfowl. Such behavior is common amongst wildturkeys. Because the hidden or camouflaged person is able to actuatedecoy 22 to better simulate more realistic or natural mating behavior ofthe female bird, the decoy 22 is more likely to appear live and enticeor attract a male gendered live bird.

Should the person 272 desire to rotate decoy 22 about axis 70, theperson may provide input to transmitter 642 which outputs signals whichare received by transceiver 640 which causes control signals to beoutput to actuator 634, causing actuator 634 to pull flexible line 258which results in tube 40 and decoy 22 rotating about axis 70. Incircumstances where decoy 22 is already in a fully lowered state,pulling on such line 258 merely results in rotation of decoy 22.Alternatively, if circumstances where decoy 22 is not yet in the fullylowered state (the bottom of tube 40 contacting the ground, the bottomof tube 40 contacting bar 26 or bias 42 being no longer compressible),pulling of flexible line 258 by the person or user 272 additionally andconcurrently lowers tube 40 and decoy 22.

After flexible line 258 has been pulled to rotate decoy 22, decoy 22remains in the new angular state about axis 70 until flexible line 58 issubsequently pulled. For example, FIG. 11 illustrates decoy 22 facing tothe left. In the state shown, the person may pull flexible line 58 toraise and lower decoy 22 while decoy 22 remains in the leftward lookingangular orientation. As a result of flexible line 258 being pulled,decoy 22 rotates to a position in which decoy 22 now faces to the right.In such a state, the person may provide input to remote transmitter 642,transmitting signals to transceiver 640 which cause control signals tobe transmitted to actuator 634 so as to pull flexible line 258 to raiseand lower decoy 22 while decoy 22 remains in the rightward lookingorientation. To once again change the angular orientation of decoy 22,the user provides commands to remote transmitter 642 which aretransmitted to transceiver 640, wherein control signals are output,causing actuator 632 to pull on flexible line 58 to return decoy 22 tothe leftward looking orientation. As a result, system 220 allows a userto change decoy 22 to a selected angular orientation and thensubsequently repeatedly raise and lower decoy 22 while decoy 22 remainsin the selected angular orientation.

In another implementation, as schematically shown by broken lines,system 620 additionally comprises a torsional bias 274. Torsional bias274 resiliently biases 240 and decoy 22 to a selected angularorientation about axis 70. For example, in one implementation, torsionalbias 274 comprises a torsion spring having one end secured to tube 40and another end secured to post 32. During pulling of flexible line 258by actuator 634, tube 40 is rotated against the bias of torsional bias274 to angularly reposition tube 40 and decoy 22. Upon release offlexible line 258 by actuator 634, torsional bias 274 returns tube 40and decoy 22 to the default angular orientation of decoy 22. In one suchimplementation, actuator 630 is omitted, wherein pulling of flexibleline 258 concurrently lowers and rotates decoy 22 while release offlexible line 258 concurrently raises and oppositely rotates decoy 22.In implementations where actuator 230 is configured similar to actuator130 described above with respect to FIG. 2, pulling a flexible line 258concurrently raises and rotates decoy 22 while release of flexible line258 concurrently lowers and oppositely rotates decoy 22.

In each of the above-described systems 620, bias 42, in the form of acompression spring, is illustrated as being contained within tube 40,captured between post 32 and either a capped end of tube 40 or the stopsurface provided by decoy 22. In other implementations, bias 42comprises a compression spring captured between a bottom or shoulder oftube 40 (or decoy 22) and either the ground, a top surface of bar 26 ora shoulder or flange radially projecting from post 32.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate decoy system 720, another exampleimplementation of system 220. System 720 is similar to system 220,except that decoy system 720 comprises actuator 730 instead of actuator230. Those remaining components of system 720 which correspond tocomponents of system 220 are numbered similarly.

Actuator 730 is similar to actuator 230 except that actuator 730replaces that portion of flexible lines 258 extending from groundsupport 231 to a remote user with a wireless transmitter and anelectrically powered actuator. In the example illustrated, actuator 730comprises a powered actuator 732 and wireless communication system 636.In the example illustrated, powered actuator 732 comprises an electricsolenoid (schematically shown) having a first portion fixed, such asbeing supported by ground support 231 and a second movable or extendableportion connected to anchor 60 and/or outer tube 40. In operation,remote transceiver 642 receives input from the person behind camouflagedor brush area 273 and communicates signals wirelessly to transceiver640. Transceiver 640 picks up such signals and outputs control signalsin response thereto. In response to such control signals, the electricsolenoid of powered actuator 732 selectively raises and lowers tube 40to raise and lower decoy 122.

Each of systems 620 and 720 are described as utilizing a wirelesscommunication system 636. In other implementations, a wiredcommunication system may alternatively be used, wherein a communicationsline or wire 745 (shown in broken lines) extends from transceiver 640 toremote transmitter 642. In such alternative implementations, theoperation of systems 620 and 720 is as described above but for signalsbeing transmitted through an across the wire or line extending along theground.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference toexample embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges may be made in form and detail without departing from the spiritand scope of the claimed subject matter. For example, although differentexample embodiments may have been described as including one or morefeatures providing one or more benefits, it is contemplated that thedescribed features may be interchanged with one another or alternativelybe combined with one another in the described example embodiments or inother alternative embodiments. Because the technology of the presentdisclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology areforeseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to theexample embodiments and set forth in the following claims is manifestlyintended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specificallyotherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element alsoencompass a plurality of such particular elements.

What is claimed is:
 1. A decoy support for supporting a wild fowl decoy,the decoy support comprising: a ground support comprising a groundengaging portion and an upstanding linear post extending along an axisthereof from the ground engaging portion; a decoy support member movablyguided by the upstanding linear post between a raised position and alowered position; a compression spring coaxial with the upstandinglinear post, the compression spring resiliently biasing the decoysupport member towards the raised position; a powered actuator coupledto the decoy support member to selectively compress the compressionspring to lower the decoy support member vertically along the axis ofthe upstanding linear post while simultaneously rotating the decoysupport member around the axis of the upstanding linear post; and acommunications system having a receiver coupled to the powered actuatorand a remote transmitter in communication with the receiver in a wiredor wireless fashion, wherein signals transmitted from the remotetransmitter to the receiver cause the powered actuator to selectivelycompress the compression spring.
 2. The decoy support of claim 1,wherein compression of the compression spring by the powered actuatorvertically lowers and simultaneously rotates the decoy support member ina first rotational direction around the axis of the upstanding linearpost, the decoy support further comprising: a second powered actuatorcoupled to the decoy support member to selectively compress thecompression spring to lower the decoy support member vertically alongthe axis of the upstanding post while simultaneously rotating the decoysupport member in a second rotational direction, opposite the firstrotational direction, around the axis of the upstanding post.
 3. Thedecoy support of claim 2, wherein the powered actuator and the secondpowered actuator are coupled to the decoy support member by beingindependently connected to the decoy support member by first and secondflexible lines, respectively.
 4. The decoy support of claim 1, whereinthe powered actuator is coupled to the decoy support member so as tocompress the compression spring to vertically lower the decoy supportmember along the axis of the upstanding post while maintaining anangular orientation of the decoy support member about the axis withoutrotating the decoy support member around the axis of the upstanding postafter the decoy support member has reached the angular orientation aboutthe axis of the upstanding post due to rotation of the decoy supportmember via the powered actuator.
 5. The decoy support of claim 1,wherein the powered actuator is coupled to the decoy support member soas to rotate the decoy support member around the axis of the upstandingpost while maintaining a height of the decoy support member withoutfurther compressing the compression spring and without further verticallowering of the decoy support member when the decoy support member is ata lowest height defining the lowered position.
 6. The decoy support ofclaim 1, wherein the powered actuator is coupled to the decoy supportmember by being connected to the decoy support member by a flexible lineand wherein the powered actuator comprises a motor and a spool aboutwhich the flexible line is wound.
 7. The decoy support of claim 1,further comprising a torsion spring resiliently biasing the decoysupport member to a selected angular orientation about the axis of theupstanding post, wherein the powered actuator simultaneously compressesthe compression spring and winds the torsion spring.
 8. A decoy systemcomprising: a decoy; a ground support comprising a ground engagingportion and an upstanding linear post extending along an axis thereoffrom the ground engaging portion; a decoy support member movably guidedby the upstanding linear post between a raised position and a loweredposition, the decoy being supported and mounted to the decoy supportmember so as to be vertically movable therewith; a compression springcoaxial with the upstanding linear post, the compression springresiliently biasing the decoy support member towards the raisedposition; a powered actuator coupled to the decoy support member toselectively compress the compression spring to lower the decoy supportmember vertically along the axis of the upstanding linear post whilesimultaneously rotating the decoy support member around the axis of theupstanding linear post; and a communications system having a receivercoupled to the powered actuator and a remote transmitter incommunication with the receiver in a wired or wireless fashion, whereinsignals transmitted from the remote transmitter to the receiver causethe powered actuator to selectively compress the compression spring. 9.The decoy system of claim 8, wherein the decoy is vertically movablethrough a distance of at least 4 inches.
 10. The decoy system of claim9, wherein the decoy is vertically movable through a maximum distance of8 inches.
 11. The decoy system of claim 8, wherein the upstanding postguides the decoy support member along an outer surface of the upstandingpost which opposes an interior surface of the decoy.
 12. The decoysystem of claim 8, wherein compression of the compression spring by thepowered actuator vertically lowers and simultaneously rotates the decoysupport member in a first rotational direction around the axis of theupstanding linear post, the decoy support further comprising: a secondpowered actuator coupled to the decoy support member to selectivelycompress the compression spring to lower the decoy support membervertically along the axis of the upstanding post while simultaneouslyrotating the decoy support member in a second rotational direction,opposite the first rotational direction, around the axis of theupstanding post.
 13. The decoy system of claim 12, wherein the poweredactuator and the second powered actuator are coupled to the decoysupport member by being independently connected to the decoy supportmember by first and second flexible lines, respectively.
 14. The decoysystem of claim 8, wherein the powered actuator is coupled to the decoysupport member so as to compress the compression spring to verticallylower the decoy support member along the axis of the upstanding postwhile maintaining an angular orientation of the decoy support memberabout the axis without rotating the decoy support member around the axisof the upstanding post after the decoy support member has reached theangular orientation about the axis of the upstanding post due torotation of the decoy support member via the powered actuator.
 15. Thedecoy system of claim 8, wherein the powered actuator is coupled to thedecoy support member so as to rotate the decoy support member around theaxis of the upstanding post while maintaining a height of the decoysupport member without further compressing the compression spring andwithout further vertical lowering of the decoy support member when thedecoy support member is at a lowest height defining the loweredposition.
 16. The decoy system of claim 8, wherein the powered actuatoris coupled to the decoy support member by being connected to the decoysupport member by a flexible line and wherein the powered actuatorcomprises a motor and a spool about which the flexible line is wound.17. The decoy system of claim 8 further comprising a torsion springresiliently biasing the decoy support member to a selected angularorientation about the axis of the upstanding post, wherein the poweredactuator is to simultaneously compresses the compression spring andwinds the torsion spring.